Posted by Rach on September 2, 2002, at 1:47:23
In reply to Getting WELL! To old-timers..., posted by JonW on September 1, 2002, at 23:11:03
It has been over a year since I had any serious depression, and I feel the best I ever have in my life. I feel a mental & emotional strength and a complete belief in myself.
So how did I do it?
Firstly, some background info. I think I have it easier than most because I am only 21. I caught onto my depression at an early age (18) and therefore started treatment at an early age. I've never been given any classification, but I believe that I have a general depression mixed in with a general form of anxiety. In no particular order...
* I found a med that worked (zoloft), and stuck with it. I gave up some things (like orgasms) in order to take a med that worked on my depression. (NB: I've been on & off zoloft twice. Only the first time I had side effects).
* I found a counsellor I liked and saw her as often as needed (generally once a week for 4 months, then I had a break, then I returned because other issues arose). I no longer see a counsellor, but if something difficult came up I would return.
* Originally I had to give up everything (university, job, independence, friends) and returned to live with my parents. All I did for 6 months was work on getting better. That time is kind of a blur for me.
* I have a strong network of family & friends who know my history and will be at my side the second I ask.
* I have developed a routine of positive thought patterns that I can shift to if I find myself thinking down.
* I remind myself that everyone has down days, and the important thing is to recognise it, then move on (instead of thinking 'I feel really down today, I must be getting depressed again, what a failure').
* I have a network of internet friends who have been through similar things so that if I feel nobody understands, I have people I can talk to who do understand.
* Along the same line, I have those same people that I can help out, therefore helping myself by helping others (? does that make sense?).
* I have found what I love to do in life, and am doing it.
* I am living in surroundings that I love. A bright, sunny, happy apartment by myself.
* Sunlight. The real key to me knowing that I am well is that I had a fantastic winter (I'm Australian). Usually I can't get out of bed for months because of the weather. This year, winter has flown past.
* Exercise, hard work, and decent sleep. A sleep routine for me is an absolute must. If I'm not in bed by 11pm and up by 8.30am at the latest then my whole week is a write off. So therefore I guess it is knowing myself, knowing what my body needs. It definately needs lots of sleep, lots of exercise, and lots of food!
I could probably keep going if I thought longer, but I think I've babbled on enough. I just reread your post & I'm not sure that I answered your q'n. Sorry! Bit tired today. :)
Rachael
poster:Rach
thread:29742
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20020829/msgs/29744.html